Most of us never thought we’d have to use the words “atom” and “electron” in a sentence again, but here we are.
At their most basic form, free radicals are rebel atoms missing an electron and looking to pick a fight with the cells in our body. Examples of free radicals (as they relate to our skin) are UV rays, cigarette smoke and air pollution. In other words, they’re kind of like the bullies of the skin care world. Except instead of stealing your lunch money, their whole existence is based around stealing electrons from your cells. Through this process (called oxidation) accelerated skin damage/aging can occur.
So, what can we do to help fight free radicals?
Queue up antioxidants. These tiny little skin care heroes help stop free radicals from wreaking havoc on our skin by offering up one of their electrons. Dana tells us more about why we need their help.
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The word antioxidant comes from the word “anti-oxidation”. Antioxidants help stabilize free radicals by donating an electron, which in turn helps to prevent oxidation from occurring and lessens the damaging effects of free radicals. These molecules help prevent oxidation from occurring and lessen or prevent the damaging effects of free radicals—which in turn helps to protect our skin cells and slow down signs of aging.
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Not only do antioxidants help with aging, but studies have also found that decreased antioxidant levels are found in people with acne. Without adequate antioxidant protection, the oil in the skin oxidizes and becomes even more pore-clogging, potentially resulting in more acne. So, if you are acne-prone, antioxidants might just become your skin’s new BFF!
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All skin types can benefit from having antioxidants in their skin care routine. Sun Bum Skin Care selects from a wide range of antioxidants to pick the right combination for each formula. Some of our favorites include Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Vitamin E and Banana, Brown Algae, and Sunflower extracts—known for containing high levels of Vitamin A, C, and E. These antioxidants work with other ingredients to help keep skin looking and feeling happy. You can see which ones were selected for each product in their list of ingredients.
